Improving Interpersonal Relations with Constructive Self-Disclosure

Self-Disclosure DefinedThe process of letting another person know

what you think, feel, or wantRevealing private, personal information that

can not be acquired somewhere else

Self-Description DefinedSelf-description involves disclosure of

nonthreatening informationInformation that can usually be acquired in

some other way

Four Benefits of Self-DisclosureIncreased accuracy in communicationReduction of stressIncreased self-awarenessStronger relationships

The Johari Window: A Model forSelf-UnderstandingModel considers information

you and others knowonly you know about yourself only others know about younobody knows

Figure 8.2 - Johari Window

Open AreaRepresents the “public” or “awareness” area

and contains information that both you and others know

Blind AreaInformation about yourself that others know

but you are not yet aware of

Hidden AreaInformation that you know that others do not

Unknown AreaInformation that is unknown to you and to

others

Figure 8.3 - Johari Window at the Beginning of a Relationship (left) and After a Closer Relationship Has Developed (right)

Appropriate Self-DisclosureQuestions about disclosing information:

How much and how intimate?With whom?Under what conditions?

Repair Damaged Relationships

The Art of Apologizing

The Art of Forgiveness

Constructive Criticism

Disturbing SituationsShare reactions to work-related problems as

soon as possible after the incidentHolding things in impacts…

Describe AccuratelySharing feelings involves risk

The Right Time and PlaceWhat you say may be fine, the when and

where may be the problem

Avoid Overwhelming Others

Barriers to Self-DisclosureWhy do people conceal their thoughts and

feelings?Why are candor and openness so

uncommon in organizations?Several barriers prevent self-disclosure

Lack of TrustTrust in organizations is declining…Lack of trust can cause…

Table 8.1

The Fear/Distrust Cycle

Figure 8.4 - Fear/Distrust Cycle

Role Relationships Versus Interpersonal RelationshipsSelf-disclosure is more likely to take place

within an organization when people…

Figure 8.5 - Self-Disclosure Indicator

Practice Self-DisclosureBecoming a more open person is not

difficult if you practiceWith practice you will…